Nutrition Tips for When You Lose Your Appetite

Sometimes a particular illness or the medicine taken for it can affect your appetite. Since it is important to maintain good nutrition, the following tips may help you plan meals and snacks that will be more appealing to you:

Meal time
Try frequent small meals and snacks, especially if you feel full after eating only a small amount. Often it is helpful to eat according to a schedule rather than to rely on appetite.

Take advantage of the times when you feel the best. Eat a hearty meal when you are hungry. Many people have their best appetite in the morning, when they are rested.

Limit fluids during meals. Liquids can create a feeling of fullness. It may help to drink liquids 30 to 60 minutes before or after meals.

Create a pleasant mealtime atmosphere.

Vary the color and texture of foods to make the meal more appealing.

For adults, wine or beer before meals (if allowed by your physician) may stimulate the appetite.

Increasing calories
During illness, treatment and recovery, your need for calories may be greater than usual. Maintaining your weight can be a sign that you are eating enough. The following suggestions can help increase your calorie intake:

Increasing protein
Protein is important for growth, health and repair of your body. If you have been ill, you may need extra protein. If illness has made red meat (beef, pork or lamb) less appealing to you, try the following foods that are also excellent sources of protein:

butter
chicken
cottage cheese
cheese
custard
dried beans
dried peas

eggs
fish
milk
milkshakes
nuts
pudding
yogurt

Commercially prepared nutritional formulas
There are a variety of nutritional supplements available. Some provide extra calories and protein, but some provide only vitamins and minerals. Check with your physician or registered dietitian to help you select the right supplement to meet your needs. If these measures do not help, or if you are losing weight, ask your physician or registered dietitian for further advice.

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